Breastfeeding: Is it Right for You?

Nearly everyone has heard the saying " Breast is best," and while we all want our children to have the best start, breastfeeding just isn't possible for every new mother. Many are made to feel that they are robbing their child of something sacred if they choose or are forced to formula-feed. While there are innumerable benefits to mother and child with breastfeeding, it's by no means a walk in the park. The first few months can be rough, especially on a new mom. I'll do my best to play Devil's advocate here and give pros and cons for each side and give a realistic view for those sitting on the proverbial fence. Let me start in chronological order, as it will be easier for my poor sleep-deprived brain to follow.

Directly after birth, most babies begin to root for their mothers' breast, seeking the comfort of Mommy and wanting nourishment after their arduous ordeal. Latching on soon after birth releases Oxytocin and Prolactin ("feel good" hormones that help a new mom relax and help the uterus contract). This helps the placenta separate from the uterus and helps stop the blood loss from childbirth. Now, while these are all good things (who COULDN'T use some "feel-good" hormones after labor ?) I'll be honest, the uterus contractions can be uncomfortable, but they are going to happen regardless of whether or not your breastfeed, so in my opinion it's better to speed up the process and get it over with.

Most babies have a mild case of Jaundice when born (a slight yellowing of the skin or eyes caused by the backup of toxins in the baby's immature liver. This usually goes away quickly on its own as the baby's organs kick into gear) It's said that breastfeeding can help this dissipate quickly, but on the other hand, so does exposing the baby to sunlight for short periods of time.

Now to changing diapers...ah, the scourge of babyhood. One sure way to to play a game of baby hot potato is declaring loud that they need to be changed. Breastfed babies have noticeably better smelling diapers than those on formula, as breast milk is easier to digest. One downfall to breast milk though, it passes though them quickly and they usually have to be fed more often, although breast milk usually helps avoid colic (painful gas or indigestion) and allergic reactions, whereas formula commonly causes colic. Breast milk diapers are usually runnier, but in my opinion, are easier to clean .

Breast milk is naturally formulated for your baby. It contains the right proportions of fat, vitamins, antibodies, everything your baby needs. Newborns' immune systems are compromised, and breast milk gives them an added boost to protect them against germs, viruses and some diseases. It's also known to help prevent obesity later in life. Highlights for moms are decreased risk of breast cancer, weight loss, prolonged time before your cycle begins. It also decreases your chances of conceiving again for as long as you breastfeed (but by no means rely on breastfeeding as your sole contraception)

While breastfeeding can be a great bonding experience for you and baby, it can leave Dad or your other little ones feeling a little left out. In this case, there are many other things you can get them to help with and in turn make them feel that they are contributing.

When you're ready to venture out with baby, breastfeeding becomes invaluable. No formula to mix and tote around, no bottles to lug and clean (unless you pump) and no prep-time. All you need is a seat or wrap to hold baby to you and you can go about your business. The milk is already warm, properly mixed and always on hand. The cons for this are few, but they can add up after a while. Little time alone, as you need either baby tor a pump nearby every 2 hours or more, having to wake up at night to either feed little one or pump. This last one can wear a woman down fast, but as newborns, most are going to wake up to feed at night regardless of what you feed them. If you exclusively breastfeed though, it'll always be you who has to tend to baby.

When using pumped milk or formula, you can get a break by enlisting someone's help and get some shut eye. In my experience, I've found it easier to either co-sleep (this obviously won't work for everyone) or put little one in her crib (which is strapped to my bed) so all I have to do is roll over, feed her and then put her back in her bed. Being able to stay in bed helps me go back to sleep faster.

As the weeks go by and you settle into a tentative schedule with baby, you realize just how much a baby can cost. Moms who breastfeed for a year save on average $1,500 (versus buying formula) Some moms choose not to breastfeed in fear of being bit, but breastfeeding can delay teething. If babies are only eating liquids, they have no need for teeth early on.

I'm seven and a half months into breastfeeding and I love it. I originally planned to breastfeed for six months, but I also thought my baby would have teeth by now and like so many others imagined the horror stories I'd have to tell of being bit. There are definitely pros and cons to it, and I know it's not for everyone. It does take a lot of time and dedication to stick with. I know women who went back to work after having their kids and pumped every chance they got at work, but most places aren't very accommodating to breastfeeding moms and they spent most of their breaks in a bathroom stall pumping.

Some are on medications that aren't safe for baby, so they can't breastfeed. There are extenuating circumstances in every situation. I am fortunate that I can continue to breastfeed my baby. I've worked very hard to stick with it and plan to do so until my baby is a year old. So if you see a mom breastfeeding, congratulate her. It's not easy work, and more often than not met with snide comments or looks of disgust by people who choose to remain uneducated about the subject.

My parting suggestion to new moms or moms-to-be is this; Try it. You'll (more than likely) be home with baby while you're healing anyway, you have nothing to lose by trying. The most important time for a baby to receive Mommy milk is the first few weeks. If you can do that, you're giving your child an invaluable gift.